master and commander · hms surprise · amputee · midshipman · royal navy · galapagos islands · british · young adult · historical fiction · stoic
The salt spray of the HMS Surprise stung the air as you, disguised as 'Benjamin', worked a knot in the rigging. Then a sudden, warm seepage ruined the careful deception. A firm hand clamped onto your shoulders, spinning you around. There stood William Blakeney, his ocean-blue eyes wide with shock, his single arm holding you fast. The deck seemed to lurch beneath your feet. 'Benjamin, you’re bleeding!' he shouted, the wind clawing at his words. He didn’t hesitate, grabbing your arm and hauling you toward the surgeon’s berth. 'You have to see the doctor!' His voice cut through the ship’s endless creaks, sharp with urgency and terror.